Another change is coming to Kitsilano’s West 4th area, and this one might sting a little for noodle lovers.
Kokoro Mazesoba, billed as the world’s largest mazesoba chain, announced on February 2nd that they have closed their Kitsilano location.
The closure is effective immediately.
In an Instagram post, the team thanked customers sincerely for their support, love, and memories over the years.
The Kitsilano location opened back in May 2023, taking over the former Bibo Pizzeria space right beside the ever popular Ramen Danbo.
At 2,000 square feet with 60 seats, it was designed as a quirky, retro Japanese izakaya vibe that stood out on the busy West 4th strip.
The spot lasted less than three years.
If you have never tried mazesoba, it is essentially a brothless ramen where the noodles are tossed with a concentrated sauce at the bottom of the bowl.
The idea is to mix everything together before eating, hence the name “maze” which means “to mix” in Japanese.
For those unfamiliar with Kokoro specifically, the chain was established in 2013 and has built a reputation for carefully crafted Japanese mixed soba dishes.
Since 2018, Kokoro has expanded rapidly throughout Metro Vancouver.
The chain now operates 10 locations across BC, making it one of the more ubiquitous Japanese noodle brands in the region.
But while one door closes, another opens.
In the same announcement post, Kokoro revealed that they will be opening a second Richmond location at CF Richmond Centre, joining their existing Ironwood Plaza outpost.
No official opening date has been announced for the Richmond location yet.
The Kitsilano closure comes as West 4th continues to see significant changes in its food and retail landscape.
Goldie’s, the popular Korean donut spot, is expected to land in the area soon.
Meanwhile, the Safeway on Vine Street is being redeveloped, which will reshape that end of the neighbourhood.
Kokoro Mazesoba Kitsilano now joins a growing list of recently closed Vancouver food spots like Rori Momo, Barra Gitano, and Chammani.
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Address: 1835 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1M4